Outside the waistband (OWB) holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry among firearm owners. These holsters offer several advantages, including ease of access, comfort, and the ability to accommodate larger handguns. Designed to be worn on the exterior of the waistband, OWB holsters are suitable for both open carry and situations requiring quick access to a firearm.
OWB holsters are available in various materials and designs, each with its own set of pros and cons. Common materials include leather and Kydex, offering different characteristics in terms of durability, retention, and comfort. When selecting an OWB holster, important factors to consider include retention mechanisms, adjustability options, and overall comfort during extended wear.
This article will examine the critical aspects to evaluate when choosing an OWB holster and provide reviews of five top-rated OWB holsters for concealed carry. This information aims to assist readers in making an informed decision when selecting a holster that best suits their specific carry requirements.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an OWB Holster for Concealed Carry
Retention: The Top Priority
A good OWB holster should securely hold your firearm in place, preventing it from falling out or being easily accessed by unauthorized individuals. Look for holsters with adjustable retention screws or retention straps to ensure a secure fit for your firearm.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort is another crucial factor to consider when choosing an OWB holster. Look for holsters with features such as padded backing or sweat guards to prevent discomfort and chafing during extended wear. Additionally, consider the holster’s position on your waistband and how it will interact with your body shape and clothing choices.
Material, Adjustability, and Quality
Material is also an important consideration when choosing an OWB holster. Leather holsters are known for their durability and comfort, while Kydex holsters offer a sleek and modern design with excellent retention capabilities. Consider the pros and cons of each material and how they will fit into your lifestyle and carry needs. Adjustability is another important factor to consider, with features such as adjustable cant and ride height allowing you to customize the draw angle and position of your firearm. Finally, consider the overall quality and reputation of the holster manufacturer, looking for brands with a solid reputation for producing high-quality, reliable holsters designed specifically for concealed carry.
Top 5 OWB Holsters for Concealed Carry
1. Blade-Tech OWB Holster: The Blade-Tech OWB holster is a popular choice among concealed carriers due to its durable Kydex construction and adjustable retention screws. This holster offers a secure fit for a wide range of firearms and is designed for comfortable all-day wear.
2. Galco Combat Master Belt Holster: The Galco Combat Master Belt Holster is a classic leather holster known for its quality craftsmanship and comfortable fit. This holster offers a traditional look and feel with a secure thumb break retention strap for added security.
3. Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Level III Retention Duty Holster: The Safariland 6360 is a top choice for those seeking maximum retention and security. This holster features Safariland’s patented ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) for unparalleled firearm retention.
4. Alien Gear Cloak Mod Paddle Holster: The Alien Gear Cloak Mod Paddle Holster offers a customizable fit with adjustable cant and ride height. This holster features a durable polymer construction and comfortable paddle design for easy on/off wear.
5. Blackhawk Serpa Sportster Holster: The Blackhawk Serpa Sportster Holster is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality. This holster features a unique auto-lock retention system and adjustable cant for a customizable fit.
Comfort and Concealment: Finding the Best OWB Holster for CCW
When it comes to concealed carry, comfort and concealment are two of the most important factors to consider when selecting an OWB holster. A comfortable holster will allow you to carry your firearm all day without discomfort or irritation, while a well-concealed holster will prevent printing and keep your firearm discreetly hidden from view. To ensure comfort, look for OWB holsters with features such as padded backing, sweat guards, and adjustable cant and ride height.
These features will allow you to customize the fit of your holster to your specific body type and carry preferences, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit all day long. Concealment is also crucial when selecting an OWB holster for concealed carry. Look for holsters with a slim profile and minimal printing to keep your firearm discreetly hidden from view.
Additionally, consider the position of the holster on your waistband and how it will interact with your clothing choices to ensure maximum concealment. Ultimately, finding the best OWB holster for CCW will require some trial and error as you test different holsters with your specific firearm and clothing choices. However, by considering factors such as comfort, concealment, material, and adjustability, you can narrow down your options and find the best OWB holster for your primary carry needs.
The Importance of Retention and Security in OWB Holsters for Primary Carry
When it comes to primary carry, retention and security are paramount when selecting an OWB holster. A good OWB holster should securely hold your firearm in place, preventing it from falling out or being accessed by unauthorized individuals. Additionally, a secure retention system will provide peace of mind knowing that your firearm is safely secured during everyday activities.
Retention systems come in various forms, including adjustable retention screws, retention straps, thumb breaks, and automatic locking systems. When selecting an OWB holster, consider the level of retention required for your specific carry needs. For example, those in law enforcement or security may require a higher level of retention than those carrying for personal protection.
Security is another important consideration when selecting an OWB holster for primary carry. Look for holsters with features such as sweat guards or protective backing to prevent unauthorized access to your firearm from behind. Additionally, consider the overall quality and reputation of the holster manufacturer to ensure that you are investing in a reliable and secure product.
Ultimately, retention and security are non-negotiable factors when selecting an OWB holster for primary carry. By prioritizing these factors in your decision-making process, you can ensure that your firearm is safely secured and easily accessible when you need it most.
Customization and Adjustability: Key Features of the Best OWB Holsters for Concealed Carry
Customization for Comfort and Accessibility
When selecting the best OWB holster for concealed carry, customization and adjustability are essential features to look for. A customizable holster allows you to tailor the fit and position of your firearm to your specific body type and carry preferences, ensuring maximum comfort and accessibility.
Adjustable Cant and Ride Height
Look for holsters with adjustable cant and ride height to customize the draw angle and position of your firearm on your waistband. This will enable you to find the most comfortable and accessible position for your specific body type and clothing choices. Additionally, consider holsters with interchangeable belt attachments or modular designs that allow you to switch between different carrying methods such as paddle, belt slide, or drop leg configurations.
Material and Retention
Material is also a crucial consideration when it comes to customization and adjustability. Kydex holsters are known for their ability to be molded to fit specific firearms, providing a custom fit that ensures maximum retention and security. Additionally, look for holsters with adjustable retention screws or straps to further customize the fit of your firearm within the holster.
Prioritizing Customization and Adjustability
Ultimately, customization and adjustability are key features of the best OWB holsters for concealed carry. By prioritizing these features in your decision-making process, you can ensure that your holster is tailored to your specific needs and provides maximum comfort, accessibility, and security.
Selecting the Best OWB Holster for Your Primary Carry Needs
Selecting the best OWB holster for your primary carry needs requires careful consideration of factors such as retention, comfort, concealment, security, customization, and adjustability. By prioritizing these factors in your decision-making process, you can ensure that you select a high-quality holster that meets your specific needs and provides maximum comfort, accessibility, and security. When choosing an OWB holster, take the time to research different brands and models to find the best fit for your specific firearm and carry preferences.
Consider factors such as material, retention system, adjustability, and overall quality to ensure that you invest in a reliable and secure product. Ultimately, finding the best OWB holster for primary carry will require some trial and error as you test different holsters with your specific firearm and clothing choices. However, by considering the key factors outlined in this article, you can narrow down your options and make an informed decision when selecting the best OWB holster for your primary carry needs.
If you’re considering carrying a weapon off-duty, you may want to check out this article on off-duty police officers and carrying a weapon. It provides valuable insights and considerations for those in law enforcement who are looking to carry a firearm while off-duty.
